Sydney, Entrada en la bahia de Sydney
Date1858-1890
Object number00000864
NamePainting
MediumWatercolour on paper
DimensionsOverall: 100 x 274 mm
Mount: 275 x 382 mm
Mount: 275 x 382 mm
ClassificationsArt
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionA watercolour sketch of the entrance into Sydney Harbour showing the Hornby Lighthouse (built 1858) on South Head.
A handwritten inscription reads 'Sydney' above the image and 'Entrada en la bahia de Sydney' (Entrance in the Sydney bay) below. Stamp lower right corner 'Ex Libris Marqués de Pidal E. 3. No. 20'.HistoryThe Hornby Lighthouse was built in 1858 following the tragic wrecking of the DUNBAR and later the CATHERINE ADAMSON. Designed by colonial architect Alexander Dawson, the Hornby Lighthouse became the third lighthouse to be built in New South Wales and marks the southern entrance to Sydney Harbour as well as altering approaching ships to the South Reef.
It was opened by the governor, Sir William Denison, and was initially known as the Lower Light to distinguish it from the nearby Macquarie Light, Australia’s oldest lighthouse that was located about two kilometres south.
SignificanceThis is an example of early recordings of Sydney Harbour showing the developing settlement through contemporary images.